November 24, 2024: In a historic moment at the IPL 2025 Auction in Jeddah, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant set a new record as the most expensive player in IPL history, being acquired by the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a staggering ₹27 crore.
The dramatic bidding war saw Pant’s former team, Delhi Capitals (DC), initially attempting to retain him by activating their Right-to-Match (RTM) card. However, LSG countered with an even higher bid, securing the star batter for the record-breaking price.
Pant’s acquisition surpasses the ₹26.75 crore paid for Shreyas Iyer earlier in the same auction by Punjab Kings (PBKS), breaking multiple records in a single day.
Rishabh Pant: A Game-Changer in T20 Cricket
Known for his explosive batting and match-winning abilities, Rishabh Pant has been one of the most impactful players in T20 cricket. His fearless approach and ability to turn games around single-handedly have made him a prized asset in the IPL.
Pant’s performances as captain of Delhi Capitals in previous seasons earned him accolades, and his return to form following an injury layoff has only added to his value. LSG’s investment signals their intent to build a formidable squad around the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter.
Mitchell Starc Back in Demand
While Pant stole the show with his record-breaking bid, Aussie pace ace Mitchell Starc also made headlines. Delhi Capitals signed Starc for ₹11.75 crore, marking another significant addition to their squad.
Starc, who was named Player of the Match in both Qualifier 1 and the final of IPL 2024, remains a potent weapon in T20 cricket, excelling both in the PowerPlay and at the death. His signing follows a stellar season with Kolkata Knight Riders, where he justified his ₹24.75 crore price tag, the previous record for the most expensive player in IPL history.
Record-Breaking Auction
The IPL 2025 auction has rewritten the history books, with both Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant setting new benchmarks in player valuations. Shreyas Iyer’s ₹26.75 crore acquisition by Punjab Kings held the record for only a few hours before Pant’s ₹27 crore deal eclipsed it.
These jaw-dropping figures highlight the growing financial muscle of IPL franchises and their willingness to invest heavily in players capable of delivering game-changing performances.
Lucknow Super Giants’ Bold Move
With Rishabh Pant onboard, LSG has sent a clear signal to their competitors. The addition of Pant to their roster significantly bolsters their middle order, offering both stability and firepower. Paired with other key players in their squad, Pant’s arrival could be the missing piece in LSG’s quest for their maiden IPL title.
As the auction frenzy settles, all eyes will now be on the 2025 IPL season, which promises to be one of the most competitive yet.
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